About UK Freeports
What are UK Freeports?
Across England, Scotland, and Wales, the government has created 12 new Freeports, which will be dynamic hubs for the industries of the future.
Our port regions have proud industrial heritages and strong economic potential, but in many cases are doing less well than the rest of the country. Freeports are all about securing their economic future, and that of the UK as a whole, by reorienting regional economies towards innovative, low-carbon sectors like renewables and advanced manufacturing.
They will put us at the forefront of the green industrial revolution and create high-quality jobs all across the UK, in the communities where they are needed most.
Collaborative Economic Development
The Freeports will drive the economy across the region they are based in. They bring together local government, the private sector, and other key partners, with long-term backing from central government, to deliver a shared economic vision. Freeports are tailored to, and build on, the strengths of local workforces, infrastructure, and businesses to make sure they work for the places they are in.
Freeports offer a range of benefits for businesses, including tax reliefs on specific sites, an ambitious programme of public investment, and dedicated support for innovation and international trade. We are already seeing how attractive Freeports are for international investors: in just two years, they have already generated £2.9 billion in investment, which will in turn create 6,000 jobs.
Explore our Opportunities for Business and Investors page to discover how your business can grow by locating in a Freeport.
Community Empowerment
As well as supporting businesses to invest and grow, Freeports have a positive impact on communities: they create high-quality, long-term jobs in the industries of the future and empower councils to invest in local infrastructure and skills programmes.
Workers and the environment have the exact same rights in Freeports as in the rest of the UK, and by collaborating with universities, colleges, and other key partners, Freeports offer local people opportunities to be at the forefront of cutting-edge sectors. Discover more about Living and Working in a Freeport.
Whether you’re an overseas investor, a small business seeking expansion, or an individual considering a new career path, Freeports are here to help you, your business, and your region achieve its full potential. Explore detailed information about each Freeport and access their websites on our All UK Freeports page.
How do Freeports operate?
A Freeport is a partnership between the public and private sectors. Freeports are run by a board made up of businesses and local councils, who play the key role of ensuring democratic accountability, transparency, and inclusivity. Freeport boards are required to publish key documents such as board papers and meeting minutes on their websites.
Where are UK Freeports located?
